The Wirecutter Show
The New York Times
The Wirecutter Show is a podcast offering expert advice on everyday products that will make your life better. Each week, co-hosts Christine Cyr Clisset and Caira Blackwell, alongside producer Rosie Guerin, speak with Wirecutter’s best-in-class journalists and other expert guests for actionable advice, surprising life hacks, and delightful product discoveries. From which stand-mixer will last you a lifetime, to the best way to travel with pets, to figuring out if your smart lock is spying on you, The Wirecutter Show gives you straightforward solutions based on years of rigorous and independent product testing by more than 140 Wirecutter journalists.
Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can also subscribe via your favorite podcast app here https://www.nytimes.com/activate-access/audio?source=podcatcher. For more podcasts and narrated articles, download The New York Times app at nytimes.com/app.
Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can also subscribe via your favorite podcast app here https://www.nytimes.com/activate-access/audio?source=podcatcher. For more podcasts and narrated articles, download The New York Times app at nytimes.com/app.
Episodes
Mentioned books
26 snips
Oct 1, 2025 • 32min
Samin Nosrat's Kitchen Favorites
Samin Nosrat, the beloved chef behind Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat, chats about her latest cookbook, Good Things. She shares how to maximize a tiny kitchen using efficient restaurant tricks and essential tools like the Y peeler and carbon steel pan. Samin emphasizes the power of condiments—think chili crisp and preserved lemon paste—to elevate simple meals. She also discusses rethinking entertaining to reduce stress, focusing on connection with guests rather than perfection in dishes.
22 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 18min
This Travel Device Could Save Your Life
Maria Adelmann, a Wirecutter travel writer specializing in travel safety, shares vital insights on carbon monoxide risks while traveling. She explains the alarming lack of CO detectors in many temporary lodgings and emphasizes the benefits of carrying a portable CO detector for peace of mind. Maria discusses how CO poisoning symptoms can mimic common illnesses, making it easy to misdiagnose. Additionally, she provides guidance on detector placement and recommends specific models, ensuring travelers are equipped to stay safe.
24 snips
Sep 24, 2025 • 39min
The Insider's Guide to Better Bed Sheets (Encore)
Jackie Reeve, Wirecutter’s bedding reporter and textile expert, dives deep into the world of bed sheets. She reveals the differences between percale and sateen weaves, emphasizing the importance of fabric feel over inflated thread counts. Jackie clarifies misconceptions around 'Egyptian cotton' and shares essential certifications to look for, like Oeko-Tex. She highlights why washing sheets before judging them is crucial and warns about common marketing traps. Plus, discover tips on when to snag the best deals for your next sheet purchase!
10 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 17min
Is the New iPhone Worth It?
Brenda Stolyar, a senior staff writer at Wirecutter, dives into the intricacies of the newly launched iPhone 17 lineup and iOS 26. She reveals that the iPhone Air, Apple's thinnest model yet, comes with trade-offs in durability and battery life. The new zoom camera feature might wow some, but most users won't see major differences in daily shots. Brenda also shares her findings on battery performance, noting that the Air drains faster. Finally, she discusses the exciting updates brought by iOS 26, enhancing the overall experience with a fresh design.
25 snips
Sep 17, 2025 • 31min
Goodbye, Dead Butt Syndrome!
Arriana Vasquez, a home office writer at Wirecutter, shares her expertise on keeping active while working from home. She delves into the health risks of prolonged sitting, likening it to 'the new smoking' and introducing the concept of 'dead butt syndrome.' Arriana discusses practical solutions like movement snacks and effective office gear, including standing desks and walking pads, to combat sedentary lifestyles. Listeners will find actionable advice to enhance their work setups and promote daily movement effortlessly.
18 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 34min
Wirecutter's Guide to Shopping at Trader Joe's
Antara Sinha, an associate staff writer at Wirecutter with a background from Bon Appetit and Food and Wine, dives into the enchanting world of Trader Joe's. She highlights 18 must-try items after tasting over 70, explains how Trader Joe's keeps prices low with clever strategies, and uncovers the reasons behind product disappearances. Antara shares insider tips on maximizing seasonal offerings and finding alternatives at local markets, all while exploring the store's unique charm that keeps shoppers coming back for more.
26 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 16min
Is an E-Bike the Answer to Your Commuting Woes?
Chris Ryan, Senior Editor and bike expert at Wirecutter, delves into the world of e-bikes, showcasing their potential as a smart commuting option. He explains how e-bikes can provide a sweat-free ride and serve as an affordable car alternative. Listeners learn about the vital differences between regular and cargo e-bikes, maintenance quirks, and the importance of purchasing from local bike shops. Chris also warns against the dangers of cheap batteries and emphasizes the need for certified safety components, making it clear that informed choices matter in e-bike ownership.
37 snips
Sep 3, 2025 • 31min
Should You Switch to an Electric Toothbrush?
Nancy Redd, a Senior Staff Writer at Wirecutter and bestselling author, delves into the world of toothbrushes and oral health. She highlights the connection between oral care and overall well-being, sharing tips for effective brushing habits. The discussion covers the pros and cons of manual versus electric toothbrushes, emphasizing the importance of a two-minute brush time. Nancy also offers strategies for making dental hygiene fun for kids and suggests alternatives like water flossers for easier oral care. Get ready for a healthier smile!
16 snips
Aug 27, 2025 • 38min
Yes, the World Is Actually Too Loud (Encore)
Lauren Dragan, a senior staff writer at Wirecutter covering audio equipment, dives into the pervasive issue of noise pollution affecting over 100 million Americans. She discusses the health risks linked to excessive noise and offers tips on how to monitor your exposure using apps and devices. Lauren shares her favorite headphones and earplugs for various situations, emphasizing protection for all ages. The episode wraps up with practical strategies for reducing noise at home, during commutes, and at events, enhancing overall well-being.
62 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 34min
The Bidet Episode
Doug Mahoney, a seasoned senior staff writer at Wirecutter, shares his journey from bidet skeptic to enthusiastic advocate after testing nearly 30 models. He discusses the differences between cold and warm-water bidets, highlighting installation tips for each. Doug explains why reliable brands matter and how bidets can benefit everyone, particularly those with mobility challenges. He also dives into the funny history of bidets while wrapping up with budget-friendly recommendations, proving that these fixtures are both practical and transformative.
